Manchester police at the scene of a car ramming and stabbing incident outside synagogue

Trigger Warning: Blood and Violence

This article contains descriptions of a deadly terrorist attack, including fatalities and violence, that may be distressing to some readers.

A horrific terror attack outside a Manchester synagogue has left two people dead and several others critically injured after a suspect ploughed a car into worshippers before launching a knife assault on Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar. Counter-terrorism police have since confirmed the attacker was shot dead at the scene, with two other individuals now under arrest in connection with the deadly assault.

The incident unfolded outside the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue in Crumpsall, Greater Manchester, during what should have been a sacred day of observance. Authorities revealed that three additional victims remain in a serious condition as bomb disposal units were brought in to secure the area.

Assistant Commissioner Laurence Taylor, the head of counter-terrorism policing, stated that while police believe they know the identity of the deceased suspect, it cannot be disclosed yet for operational reasons. He described the attack as 'appalling' and utterly 'devasting' for Manchester's Jewish community.

Starmer has condemned the attack as 'horrific' as it came on the Jewish holy festival of 'Yom Kippur'

Police Confirm Two Arrests as Investigation Intensifies

Greater Manchester Police confirmed the attacker was fatally shot by officers after using both a vehicle and a knife during the assault. They also verified that two individuals connected to the case are now in custody.

In a formal statement, Taylor emphasised that the immediate focus remains on the victims and their families. 'Those who tragically lost their lives and those who are injured are at the forefront of our investigation,' he said. Based on the evidence gathered, the attack has been officially labelled a terrorist incident.

Members of the community comfort each other near Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue in north Manchester

'Hate Will Not Divide Us': Leaders Condemn Horrific Attack

Local councillors Nasrin Ali, Jawad Amin, and Fiaz Riasat released a powerful joint statement condemning the assault, stressing that Yom Kippur should have been a day of 'peace and reflection.' Instead, they said, the Jewish community was forced to endure 'horror and violence at a sacred place of worship.'

They pledged unwavering solidarity with Jewish residents in Manchester and beyond, affirming that hate will not be allowed to divide the city's diverse communities.

The incident has drawn widespread condemnation from leaders across the UK, with officials stressing the urgent need for vigilance and support for the Jewish community. As the investigation continues, security has been heightened at synagogues and other places of worship nationwide.

The area is home to large Jewish and Muslim communities

This devastating attack on a day of sacred observance has left Manchester's Jewish community in mourning, but also resolute in the face of hatred. As the investigation continues and the city begins to heal, the focus now turns to supporting the victims and reinforcing the bonds of solidarity that leaders have vowed will not be broken.

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